<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 29/05/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 29 May 2023
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A polite reminder to all of you attending track sessions to ensure you pay your fee for a monthly track pass.
If the fees are not paid, the cost of the monthly track pass will need to be increased.
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Another glorious bank holiday weekend has gone by…
Hopefully many of you were able to enjoy the sunshine for a run or a walk but for some of us, it was back to the road on two wheels to take on RideLondon!
Kudos to all of you who took part this year with a shout out to Anne Hepple, Rich Jones,
Claire Oxlade, Amelia Pettitt, Khawaja Shahabuddin and Sally Urquhart.
For others, there was one more Spring marathon to tick off the list in the City of Edinburgh.
Congratulations to Ronnie Haydon, finishing in 4:05:04 and Sarah Wright, in 3:45:41.
Over in Cagliari, during the third race of the World Triathlon Championship Series, our golden boy Alex Yee, showed his strength and determination, taking victory for the second time in 1:36:28, five seconds ahead of his opponent Hayden Wilde. It was not the easiest start for Alex as he fell to his knees in the sand however he managed to navigate the waves and maintain a good pace in the cycle, leading him to separate from Wilde in the four-lap run through the streets of Cagliari.
Photo credit: World Triathlon
HELLO SOCIAL SEASON
It wouldn’t be summer without a lot of social events to look forward to!
The first of the Kent AC summer socials returns tomorrow, 30 May.
Treat yourself to some nibbles and drinks after your track session!
Another great social event is the upcoming Assembly League
taking place on 1 June at Crystal Palace Park.
If that doesn’t tempt you enough and you fancy going for a shiny new PB,
we have our next Kent AC takeover at Dulwich parkrun on 3 June.
On 10 June, it is a special day for Hilly Fields!
We will be celebrating the 500th parkrun as well as bidding farewell to the fantastic
Stephen Robson, who is stepping down as Event Director.
Not officially a Kent AC parkrun takeover however it would be wonderful
to see many of you there to commemorate the occasion.
13.1 MILES OF FUN
One of our favourite events on the Kent AC calendar, The Big Half,
is taking place on 3 September.
For those of you wanting to take part, we have been allocated 19 community spaces,
kindly organised by Barny Day.
Please mark your interest on the form here.
The lucky runners will be picked by lottery on 3 June!
Although it is not required, those of you that do get picked may wish to make a small donation
or fund raise to the youth set up at Kent AC.
SUMMER DATES FOR THE DIARY
30 May – Track social 1 June – Assembly League, Crystal Palace Park 3 June – Kent AC parkrun at Dulwich 21 June – Dulwich relays 18 June – SAL, Mile End 27 June – Track social 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 25 July – Track social 3 August – Assembly League, Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 29 August – Track Social 3 September – The Big Half 7 September – Assembly League, BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It’s a straightforward process that the club will pay for, with more detail on available courses here.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to Bernie Hutchison to find out more.
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline or Laurie
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30
Thursday 17:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022.
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 21/05/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 21 May 2023
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What an active week for Kent AC! We had victories and records at the Beckenham Relays on Wednesday, a competitive start to our SAL season on Saturday, a crowd up in Hampstead cheering on the runners at the Night of 10k PBs, and today several great half marathon runs in Hackney and Chislehurst.
And on top of that, we made two cracking new member signings, both of whom ran last night at Parliament Hill Fields.
Nick Torry may be familiar to many as he occasionally runs (and generally wins) Dulwich or Crystal Palace parkruns. Among his many achievements are the 2nd fastest V40 parkrun time ever (14:33) and the fastest V45 time (14:57) He also has the 2nd fastest British V45 HM time (66:14) and is 4th on the V45 10000m list. He has run for Kent before, in the Surrey League as a second claimer, and has now been persuaded to switch to us as first claim. He ran at Highgate last night in a Kent vest, although was unfortunate to suffer a fall and finished in 32:29.
Marcelo Laguera is a 27 year old Mexican international runner, with PBs of 13:59 in the 5000, 28:05 in the 10000, and 63:07 in the HM. He ran in the Championship race at Highgate last night, finishing in an excellent 28:14. A great addition to the club, and we hope to see him running in our vest soon! Welcome Nick and Marcelo!
A date to note is the Kent AC club run at Dulwich parkrun on 3rd June.
BECKENHAM RELAYS
In the 2023 Beckenham Relays Kent AC had its biggest turnout at the event with 33 runners putting on the mighty blue vest. Our serious intent was shown by selecting 3 runners for the A team who all broke 15 minutes in the Battersea 5k just a month ago.
In the Men’s race it was a reversal of last year’s results. Cameron Dockerill stormed round in the fastest leg of the day in a fantastic 12:37 on leg 1 giving Owen Hind a solo run on leg 2. Owen extended the lead on Dulwich over the hilly 2.6 mile course by running 13:02 and eventually handed over to Rob Sesemann. Rob ran a very controlled 13:04 to break the Kent AC Team record by 35 seconds which was set last year. We believe that Cam broke the individual course record as well as the three breaking the team record. Well done gentlemen we are all very proud of you. A shoutout to the Mens B team of Chris Busaileh, Ben Clarke & Chris Mullin coming 4th, also beating the Dulwich B team.
In the women’s race Bryony Proctor led out the team by running 15:09 which was the fastest female leg of the day coming in 1st after leg 1 with a big gap to the second female. Congratulations Bryony. She was backed up with fantastic runs from teammates Claire Elms (15:57) & Ellie Freeden (16:10) to retain the woman’s title. The women’s B team of Jen Berg, Amy White & Nesrin Sabanci also claimed silver. The woman’s C team of Victoria Buck, Ella Day & Parris Williams came in 4th place beating local rivals Dulwich into 5th. Credit to Pete Boxshall for great coaching on the women’s side.
In the mixed team race, a special shoutout to Victoria Cartwright who ran 1:10 quicker than last years time only 23 days after running the London marathon. Vic was backed up by two more Kent AC runners who also ran the London Marathon to claim a bronze medal in the mixed team category, Jonathan Tipper and George Russell closing out the team running 13:43 & 13:25 respectively.
A big thank you from myself to everyone who wore the mighty blue vest and ran fantastically as always, a quote from Sally Urquhart during the presentations “coming up the last hill I felt awful but I knew I had to fight for every position for the team” which shows team spirit is at its highest. It was a privilege to be the team manager again this year and to come away with 4 team medals across the three categories shows the standard we set at Kent AC.
[Report by team captain Jake Simmonds]
Southern Athletic League – Hornchurch
The first SAL of the season was held on Saturday at Hornchurch, near the end of the District Line, and what a turn out – we had 28 scoring athletes and another 11 non-scorers. Kent AC came a close fourth out of six teams overall, being overtaken by Thurrock on the last few events. Fortunately we have a chance at redemption as Thurrock will also be competing at our next fixture in Mile End on June 18th.
It was also one of the best sprint turn outs we’ve seen in years thanks to the influx of junior runners eligible this season. There were many PBs today from the sprinters including Clio Parkes, Liv Shortland and Darren Smith who got PB’s in both their 100m and 200m races. A great start to the season for all of them. Max Harbord also ran strongly to come 2nd in the 100m and 200m A races. PB’s also fell for SAL debut runners Azarai and Jacob in their races. The men picked up a 1st and 5 2nd places in the 100, 200 & 400 A and B strings and the women achieved two 1sts and a 2nd place.
It was a great day for Kent distance running. Harry Foreman Wilshaw once again proved his strength with a relaxed looking finish to win the 1500m in 4.09. Dame Dibaba won the B string in 4.11. We are now unbeaten in the A string in this event for 5 matches and have only failed to win the B string once in this time. Claire Elms was also impressive in the women’s 1500m running 5:05 for 5th place.
Other notable distance results include Alexa Parker winning the women’s 3000m, with Dee O’Brien 2nd in the B string. Jake Simmonds was second in the men’s 3000m close behind former Kent AC man James Connor, with Che Compton 3rd in the B string. Jasper Jones came in 4th in the 800m A race as an under 17, with George Russell 3rd in the B race.
We also fielded a team for every relay race available, men’s and women’s, which just goes to show the calibre of sprinters we have in the club. The men’s 4 x 100m was unlucky to be disqualified and will definitely grow through the season.
Those competing in multiple events are particularly vital in building points. Alex Harris proved a great signing and the former 1.95 high jumper scored us valuable points in the HJ, TJ and discus. Most impressively he teamed up with Ellis Metzger and they both cleared 2m in the Pole vault. Ian Ellwood competed in 5 events, and Gen Blanche was also a strong multi-eventer getting points in the triple jump, long jump, 400m, 800m and 1500m. Sofia Contino competed in the LJ, hammer, 400 and 800.
Field eventers of note include Archie Harper, who produced an excellent high jump of 1.70 to come second overall as well as a second place in the A string 400m. Lara Ellis competed well in several of the throwing events. Jack Jones and Micah Payne Cook came third in the A and B string long jump with both going well over 5m.
Ian Ellwood and Joe Hartley renewed their rivalry in the 110mh and steeplechase with Ian proving dominant once again over the high hurdles but Joe lasting the distance in the steeplechase. Ian also won the B string 400h in 66.5s.
Final results:
1 Havering 341
2 Dartford Harriers 328
3 Thurrock Harriers 267
4 Kent AC 211
5 Serpentine RC 171
6 Highgate Harriers/Mornington Chasers 161
Well done to everyone who competed, and a big thank you to everyone who volunteered to officiate as well. Phil Marsden, Kehinde Duada, Jacqueline Francis, Pete Boxshall, Ed and Annabelle Hadlow, these events really couldn’t happen without you.
If you fancy competing please do contact Ian Ellwood – the next fixture is at the slightly more convenient Mile End. We’re particularly keen if you have experience with jumps or throws, as this is where other teams often have an advantage on us.
Finally a quick note on signing up for the SAL. We do understand if you are unable to make it, but please do let one of us know or remove your name from the spreadsheet, particularly if you are down as an A or B scorer.
[Report by SAL team captains Ian Ellwood and Olivia Shortland]
Other Results
Kent runners were active in many other places this week.
In addition to Nick and Marcelo mentioned above, Chris Greenwood ran the Highgate 10000m last night, inching under 31 minutes in 30:59.
In the popular Hackney Half Owen Hind came 5th in 71:35. James Bates ran a PB of 97:30, just ahead of Ivona Gongolova in 1:40. Jo Wint ran 1:54 a few days after running a hard leg in Beckenham.
In nearby Chislehurst there were 5 Kent runners in the half marathon – Phil Sanders was 7th overall and 1st V50 in 83:18. Amy Clements was 17th and 3rd woman runner (88:01), Katie Rowland was 25th and 4th woman (91:14), Victoria Buck 47th, 5th woman and 1st VW45 (98:11) and Jen Berg 55th (99:54) Kent women also won the team prize.
Kent’s victorious women
SUMMER TRACK SOCIALS
With the evenings getting lighter and warmer and the promise of more sunshine, we’re excited to announce the return of the summer track socials.
Starting next week, Tuesday 30th May and taking place on the last Tuesday of every month from May to August. Drinks and nibbles will be provided by the club at Ladywell Track in the clubroom. Starting after your warm down until 9pm.
SUMMER FORWARD LOOK
Make sure to add these events to your diary!
30 May – Track social 1 June – Assembly League TBC 3 June – Kent AC parkrun at Dulwich 21 June – Dulwich relays 18 June – SAL, Mile End 27 June – Track social 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 25 July – Track social 3 August – Assembly League, Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 29 August – Track Social 7 September – Assembly League, BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It’s a straightforward process that the club will pay for, with more detail on available courses here.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to Bernie Hutchison to find out more.
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline or Laurie
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30
Thursday 17:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly /" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 14/05/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 14 May 2023
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From Norman Park to Nordic cities, our navy blue vests shone resplendently on track, field and road competitions this weekend. We had a gold medal and PBs a-plenty at the Kent County Track and Field Championships, whilst over in Copenhagen, Josh Lennard-Jones and James Murray took the scenic route to Carlsbergs by smashing the marathon in 3:06:27 and 2:58:18 respectively.
The drama wasn’t limited to the Scandis this weekend, as closer to home at Peckham Rye parkrun, the chase was on until Jon Tipper took a photo finish first place with Barnaby Day in second place and a parkrun PB. Che Compton completed the podium, coming in first place. Meanwhile Paul Pollock scored the fastest parkrun time in the whole of the UK at Belfast Victoria in 14:29.
Wednesday sees the summer kick off with the Beckenham relays! We look forward to seeing you there!
Josh and James on a post-marathon ‘hej’ with well-deserved pints!
STILL BEJEWELED
A week on from King Charles donning his crown, Czechia’s Eurovision song showed that crowns are still all the rage this week. But more importantly, the results from last week’s epic Coronation Games are now up on Power of 10. A huge well done again to Will Pitt for organising such a fantastic day and to all who volunteered and competed.
HEARDLE: THE SOUND OF SUCCESS
This weekend saw the Kent County Track and Field Championships at Norman Park, with some huge successes for juniors and seniors alike.
A massive well done to Tess Hepple for coming in 1st place in the U15G 75m hurdles final in a PB of 12.21. A massive thanks to Miguel and Hassan for all their support, and for their encouragement on her start, which she has had to change in the transition to the U15 age group.
The successes didn’t stop there, as Sham Notice and Liv Shortland both made it to the 100m senior women’s final, with Liv finishing with a new PB. Sham also competed in the 200m women’s final. On the men’s side, Max Harbord made it to the 100m final too.
In the U17 100m heats, Mia Evans and Micah Payne-Cook both came away with fantastic new PBs.
Meanwhile up in sunny Yorkshire, Ian Ellwood showed that last week’s hurdle race was merely a warm up- this week smashing nothing but the competition by winning a bronze medal in the 3000m steeple chase.
Tess with her U17G 75m hurdles trophy
SALutations
If this weekend’s track and field events have inspired you to participate, then please sign up for the first fixture of this year’sSouthern Athletics League (SAL), on 20 May at Hornchurch.
All are welcome and the more, the merrier! Please contact Ian Ellwood or Liv Shortland for more details and sign up here!
We also need officials and volunteers and if you are interested please contact Len here.
SUMMER FORWARD LOOK
May is here and we have plenty of exciting events around the corner so make sure to add them to your diary!
17 May – BPP relays 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 21 June – Dulwich relays 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League, Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League, BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It’s a straightforward process that the club will pay for, with more detail on available courses here.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to Bernie Hutchison to find out more.
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline or Laurie
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30
Thursday 17:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly /" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 08/05/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 8 May 2023
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It has been a joyful extra bank holiday weekend, kicking off with the first Assembly League of 2023 at Victoria Park on Thursday evening. A great performance and turnout with wins for both men’s and women’s first teams, full results to follow so keep an eye out.
Join us for the next one on 1st June!
(Those who made the group photo)
On Saturday, we had the Kent AC takeover at Hilly Fields parkrun. A wet morning and heavy marathon legs for some, however a lovely bunch turned out nonetheless with many volunteering and six of our own finishing in the top ten!
Yesterday, the Kent AC Coronation Games took over the Ladywell Arena. The sun was shining, the beers were flowing and we had a strong attendance with athletes from all over turning out to perform. A huge thank you to Will Pitt for dedicating a lot of time to planning the event and running the show on the day, without whom it would not have been possible along with all of the wonderful volunteers who made the day such a success. Read on to find out more on the results!
Whilst we’re on the subject of track, a reminder to all Kent members using the facility to make sure to purchase your pass ahead of your chosen session. Apologies for the system not working last week but it appears to be resolved now.
You can pay your fee here.
A KENT CORONATION TO REMEMBER
Whilst one coronation took place along the streets of Westminster on Saturday, another special coronation took place in our beloved Ladywell Arena yesterday afternoon.
We had over 170 entrants for the Coronation Games, from debutants to national standard athletes with a fantastic show of both junior and senior Kent members. It really was a day of community and appreciation for all the wonderful volunteers who dedicate so much time to Kent AC and to developing the future of the club.
Harry Forman Wilshaw (U20) starred, winning a memorable 800m and Gunpowder Mile double, amongst a host of other outstanding Kent performances. You can check out all of the results here.
Congratulations to all of you who raced!
TAKE A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Kent AC has just had a particularly busy and high-profile few weeks. The cross-country season seems to have just finished, yet we have had our first track match, put on an open track meet and had the excitements of the road relays and London (and other) marathons in between.
This piece is a personal thank you those who made it all happen and to point you to a few sources where you can revisit some of these wonderful experiences.
Thanking people is a tricky task, as naming names means you leave people out. So I wont name names. But the people who organized the travel, accommodation and meal for the nation cross-country; who organized the relay teams; who coached and supported the marathon runners; who managed the KYAL track team, and who did a huge amount of graft in putting on the amazing Coronation games all know who they are. Not to forget the large number of people who chipped in their bit. And of course, the competitors. Thank you.
It’s difficult to pick a highlight, for the same reason of possibly offending others. But I will: the whole club should applaud the colossal achievement of a bronze medal for the senior men at the 12 stage national road relay on 15 April. Maybe Kent AC will field a stronger and more motivated team some time in the future, but it’s hard to imagine. It’s also a measure of how far we have come in a generation. I vividly remember the first time we qualified for and competed in the event (in 1996) and being thrilled to just be there. We finished 44th. What progress.
The wonderful world of digital publishing means these experiences can be enjoyed. Settle down and listen to Ellie Brown’s slot on BBC radio on London marathon day here, read Russell Bentley’s gripping and emotional first-hand account of the 12 stage here and watch Mark Hookway’s only slightly shortened video of the event here.
Len Reilly
Co-president
AN HONOURABLE MENTION
Peter Yates, who died recently aged 92, is a name that will probably be known to only long-standing
members, but is one to whom we should all be grateful. For it was he, along with Ron Hale, who did
most to resurrect Kent AC from near collapse in the late 1970s.
Peter joined the club in 1949. In the 1950s he competed as a sprinter, running c.52 sec for 400yards,and long jumper. His work for the MOD took him to the states 1953-59 and 1963-66. On his return he competed consistently on the country and road until the 1990s, when he again turned his talents to the track supporting the club’s vets’ t&f team.
But it was his role as a club office holder where he made his greatest contribution. He was cross
country secretary 1969-72, general secretary 1973-4 and president in 1976. This coincided with a
slide in the club’s fortunes. In the 1960s and early 1970s the club had thriving and successful men’s
and women’s track teams and a junior section. But from the mid 1970s there was a decline in our
women’s section, relegations and later resignations from track leagues, defections to other clubs
and unfilled committee posts. In 1979 there were calls for the club to be wound up, but Peter, along
with Ron (and Juno Field, who is still a regular) fought for our survival. In so doing they, later
assisted by Norman and Dennis Fairbrass, and later again by Ken Pike, laid the first foundations that have seen us work our way from almost nothing to one of the top clubs in the country.
Peter carried on competing through his 50s, 60s and 70s. Versatility was his forte: he ran in the first
three London marathons and was age group county sprints champion in his 60s and 70s.
He retired to Devon in 1998 and was made an honorary member a year later.
He is somebody to whom all our members should be grateful and will be sadly missed by those who
knew him and his family.
Len Reilly
Co-president
BEING WELL, RUNNING BETTER
*This event is going to be rescheduled. Keep an eye out for another announcement*
We all know that recovery, fuelling and generally treating our bodies as miraculous temples is as important to an athlete’s wellbeing as the actual training, but still we believe that if we run our bodies into submission, those PBs will happen. They just won’t.
Learn more about the fun stuff during an evening of lectures, food, drinks and general high jinks, cunningly inserted between our two training nights for maximum recovery. You owe it to your temple to attend.
Running & Wellbeing Event: Performance, Power, Psychology and Pints An opportunity to learn, question, reflect and socialise.
SALutations
If this weekend’s track and field events have inspired you to participate, then please sign up for the first fixture of this year’sSouthern Athletics League (SAL), on 20 May at Hornchurch.
All are welcome and the more, the merrier! Please contact Ian Ellwood or Liv Shortland for more details and sign up here!
We also need officials and volunteers and if you are interested please contact Len here.
SUMMER FORWARD LOOK
May is here and we have plenty of exciting events around the corner so make sure to add them to your diary!
17 May – BPP relays 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 21 June – Dulwich relays 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League, Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League, BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It’s a straightforward process that the club will pay for, with more detail on available courses here.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to Bernie Hutchison to find out more.
AND THE WINNER IS…
Saturday’s bonus ball was number 7!
Due to the rollover, congrats to John Cox who has won £500.
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline or Laurie
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30
Thursday 17:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked here. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly /" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 30/04/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 30 April 2023
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While the London marathoners went downstairs backwards and slept for a week, Kent AC youth were limbering up for the first KYAL meet this weekend and our resident ultra runner Zuzana Nemeckova came 14th in the Highlands Ultra. Meanwhile, we all have some huge club events to look forward to, (not least a whole tranche of Bank Holidays): some fun and games on the track, a chance to kick back with a pint and learn about recovering properly from our exertions and, looming large this Thursday, the first of the summer’s Assembly Leagues. We’ve made it through the lingering winter storms and can anticipate balmy summer evenings and those annoying little flies on Ladywell Fields…time to invest in some new running sunnies. Decathlon have a decent range.
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BECKENHAM AND DULWICH RELAYS
These were great fun last year and the women’s team in particular needs to retain its title. Jake has set up an Excel page for those who would like to run for the team at the Beckenham Relays on 17 May, and the Dulwich ones on 21 June. Please sign up HERE
Flashback to last season’s relays
FINE YOUNG ATHLETES
Kent Young Athletes League The first match took place in Norman Park on Saturday 29 April. At the time of going to press the results were not yet available, but they should be posted here once they’re finalised.
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ASSEMBLE HERE
Richard Elliot writes:
‘After a false start earlier this month, the first race of the Assembly League season has been confirmed for next Thursday in VIctoria Park with a 19:30 start.
The course is a three and a half mile figure of eight loop round the park on tarmac paths.We expect the Race HQ to be at the Victoria Park Harriers clubhouse which is very close to the start line. There are toilets and changing facilities at the club house.
Address of the clubhouse:
St Augustine’s Hall, Cadogan Terrace, London E9 5EG
If the timing system is the same as the previous few years (I’ve asked for confirmation), I’ll send out another email before the race with details on how to create a runner profile.
What is the assembly league? I know the club has had a lot of new members in the last couple of years, so for those of you not familiar, the Assembly League is a summer race series which takes place on the first Thursday of each month. The races are all around 5km in length.
There are usually six races in the season, but with the first race being cancelled there will now only be five races this year.
The Assembly League is a very welcoming and inclusive series, it isn’t just for “fast” runners. In the past it has been really well supported by the club and we’ve had 40-50 people turn out for each race. We usually do very well in both the mens and womens junior, senior and veteran competitions.
The Assembly League is also free for members (the club will cover the race fees). All you do is turn up on the night, collect a race number (remember your pins!) and off you go.’
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KENT AC’S CORONATION GAMES – 7 MAY
Just two weeks to go until the biggest event in London on the second May bank holiday weekend. The CG is an open track event on 7th May.
Shout out for volunteers for next week’s Coronation Games. There is a link to a Google sheet, here
All volunteers will get a coffee or a drink voucher.
Events to be contested are 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, The Gunpowder Mile, Hurdles, Relays, Javelin and Long Jump. Exciting news for more mature jump racers: there will also be Hurdle entries for W40-W59 and M50-M59 age groups.
There will be qualified track officials and timekeepers, so times will be official and recorded on powerof10 and elsewhere.
The entry portal is open here. Book your race soon as some events are already booked up.
There will be a fully licensed bar, a wood-fired pizza van and a coffee hut. It costs £5 to enter the first event and £2 per event thereafter.
All spectators are welcome; should be a great day for the club.
Kit donations needed for the Coronation games
We will be running a swap shop for running kit at the event. Please bring along unwanted kit to our stall on the day or alternatively contact Amelia to collect this from you during the week ahead. Shorts, tops, leggings, crop tops etc. all welcome (not just Kent AC branded kit). Thank you.
BEING WELL, RUNNING BETTER
Watch these space for more details on the running and wellbeing event on 17 May; it may be rescheduled.
We all know that recovery, fuelling and generally treating our bodies as miraculous temples is as important to an athlete’s wellbeing as the actual training, but still we believe that if we run our bodies into submission, those PBs will happen. They just won’t.
Learn more about the fun stuff during an evening of lectures, food, drinks and general high jinks, cunningly inserted between our two training nights for maximum recovery. You owe it to your temple to attend.
Running & Wellbeing Event: Performance, Power, Psychology and Pints Wednesday 17th May 2023 19:15-21:15 at St. Dunstans Jubiliee Ground, Canadian Avenue, London SE6 4SW An opportunity to learn, question, reflect and socialise. There will be a bar and food.
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SALutations
If you’ve been inspired by the weekend’s racing successes, and want to pull on the navy blue vest to do your bit for the club, then please sign up for the first fixture of this year’sSouthern Athletics League (SAL), on 20 May at Hornchurch.
All are welcome and the more, the merrier! Please contact and for more details and check out the Sign up spreadsheet here.
We also need officials and volunteers and if you are interested please contact .
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SUMMER FORWARD LOOK
Save the dates for the Kent AC Open meet, a wellbeing event, SAL, Assembly League, parkruns, and the big 125 anniversary dinner. It’s set to be a summer to remember!
4 May – Assembly League Victoria Park 6 May – parkrun takeover (location TBC – please share ideas!) 7 May – Kent AC Open Meeting, Ladywell Arena 17 May – Wellbeing Event, St Dunstan’s 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 21 June – Dulwich relays 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
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SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
Courses take place on 1 April in Norman Park, and the following are available:
Level 1 Starter/Starters Assistant
Level 1 Track Judge
Level 1 Field Judge
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
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KIT DONATIONS FOR JUNIORS
Thank you to those who have donated their unwanted Kent AC New Balance kit. With the Coronation Games fast approaching, we’d really like you to bring any unwanted kit to the track when you come along to support or compete on 7 May. We still have more juniors who would be interested in receiving some kit. Please let Amelia know if you have any running kit (not only New Balance) that could be useful to the juniors. This doesn’t have to be just Kent AC club kit, all running kit suitable for junior athletes is welcomed.
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WELFARE OFFICER VACANCY
After more than 5 years as one of the club’s welfare officers, Neil Gordon Orr will stepping down shortly due to work commitments. England Athletics recommend that clubs should have both male and female welfare officers, so we are looking for somebody to replace me and work alongside Sarah Young and Sarah Maris-Shaw. The welfare officer role involves taking a lead for safeguarding children and adults at risk (though this is everybody’s responsibility), helping to develop policy and occasionally dealing with concerns. We also have an interest in promoting athletes’ well being more broadly, such as encouraging an understanding of mental health issues.
The role would suit somebody with a children’s services background in education, health or social care though this is not essential. It is a great opportunity to make a difference and also looks good on your CV! Training in the role is offered by England Athletics and Neil will do a full handover/induction for my replacement. If you might interested or would like to find out more please let us know at .
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MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to to find out more.
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SWEEPSTAKE NUMBERS AVAILABLE
Next month will be a roll over. Whoever has the bonus ball on 6th May will win £500. If you want one of the last available numbers, email David at .
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EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline/Laurie at ( / ).
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30
Thursday 17:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked at https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/london/lewisham/ladywell-arena. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
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KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly on .
<!–
–>
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 23/04/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 23 April 2023
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What a weekend! With the silverware from last weekend’s National Road Relays still iron hot, Kent AC demonstrated its breadth and depth across so many distances this weekend. A huge shout out to the juniors representing Lewisham borough at the mini marathon too, showing their talents and showing that the future of Kent AC is very bright indeed. Well done to everyone who was out racing, cheering, or volunteering. If you’re inspired, then why not sign up to SAL or the upcoming Coronation Games?
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MO SHORTAGE OF SUCCESS
AT THE MINI MARATHON
On Saturday morning, 16 Kent AC juniors lined up to run 2.6km around St. James’ Park and finishing on The Mall. Not only did they set the tone for the London Marathon weekend and show the adults how it’s done, but they represented the Lewisham Borough with some fantastic results that did their training proud. Well done everyone!
U17 Boys :
• Olly Buck (2nd claim) 8th in 08:02
• Guy Barnett 10th in 08:04
• Theo Gaymes 83rd in 09:23
U15 Boys:
• Jasper Jones 37th in 08:52
• Dylan Sandhu 62nd in 09:21
U13 Boys:
• George Searle 78th in 10:04
• Zac Cunningham 85th in 10:09
• Lucas Stickland 93rd in 10:14
• Ewan Willis 135th in 11:13
U17 Girls:
• Sophie Walker 81st in 11:49
U15 Girls:
• Lauren Jefferson 63rd in 10:40
• Abigail Wrake 90th in 11:13
• Mei Eden-Green 91 in 11:13
U13 Girls:
• Tallulah Jones 61st in 10:48
• Alice Hales 76th in 11:02
• Alexi Walker 116th in 11:42
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26.2 REASONS TO CELEBRATE
The day might have started with drizzle, but 52 Kent AC members shone as they took on the capital this weekend. Kudos to everyone for getting out there on the long run to Chandos!
Congratulations to everyone who ran:
Ben Armson – 2:57:55
Jen Berg – 3:08:26
James Boustead – 2:30:48
Ross Braden – 2:15:47
Lara Bromilow – 2:59:10
Vic Cartwright – 3:22:46
Ben Clarke – 2:29:09
Che Compton – 2:38:08
Iona Cousland – 2:58:40
Sarah Crichton – 3:04:02
Barny Day – 2:31:40
Kersha Dwyer – 3:17:06
Fergus Ellis – 3:40:41
Ellie Freeden – 3:04:12
Mark George – 3:10:31
Michael Gibson – 2:58:31
John Gilbert – 2:19:28
Jonathan Griffiths – 2:49:01
Ben Hope – 2:33:15
Miki Jablkowska – 5:15:12
Matthew Jones – 2:34:21
Catherine Kandie – 3:02:21
Poppy Kemp – 4:07:05
Jeremy Kempke – 2:49:02
Robert King – 2:45:10
Christopher Lyndon – 3:02:31
Joe Miller – 3:26:31
Nick Mooney – 3:47:59
Martin Morgan – 4:44:39
Chris Mullin – 2:38:39
Caoimhe Nic Fhogartaigh – 2:47:37
Max Nicholls – 2:23:10
Adam Paterson – 2:36:11
Neil Phillips – 2:42:05
Will Pitt – 2:50:54
Ben Racle – 2:47:30
James Royston – 3:04:24
George Russell – 2:36:34
Nesrin Sabanci – 3:13:26
Chris Schofield – 3:14:25
Virginia Silio – 3:09:08
Suzanne Spalding – 3:56:38
Mathew Speed – 2:26:07
Sharon Stanley – 4:12:39
Jon Tipper – 2:30:24
Michael Tozer – 3:27:51
Christopher Travis – 2:59:47
Gian giacomo Valentini – 2:48:48
Amanda Wildgoose – 3:29:15
Joseph Wilkes – 3:03:12
Philip Woodford-smith – 2:36:18
Sarah Young – 3:51:35
Some particular shout outs to John Gilbert, who came 9th out of the mass start and 36th overall, and Caoimhe Nic Fhogartaigh, who placed 3rd ib her age category and 35th out of the mass start. John and Caoimhe are our marathon club championships winners!
Unconfirmed analysis also places Kent as 4th in the men’s team championships results too!
A day to remember! Roll on next year!
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BATTER-SEE WHAT THEY DID THERE
You could forgive our men’s A team for continuing the celebrations from last weekend’s National Road Relays, but instead of going straight to the pub on Friday night, they went via Battersea Park to test themselves against some of the country’s finest runners over 5km. It’s safe to say that the team did themselves and the club proud, with 4 runners hitting sub-15 minutes in the same race for the first time in history. Not only were PBs set across the board, but Chris Greenwood smashed his way onto 9th on the all time UK V45 list in 14:47!
Huge well done also to Cam Dockerill for coming home in 4th place in 14:28 (a 22 second PB), with Owen Hind just behind in a season’s best of 14:29, Rob Sesemann in 14:52 (a 9 second PB), Chris Busaileh in 15:36 (a season’s best for our men’s road Team Captain), Peter Lightning in 15:48 (a season’s best), Matteo Gala in 16:25, Richard Giles in 17:14, and Clare Elms in 18:27.
Friday’s are the new Thursdays.
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IT’S A RUN NOT A RACE…
… But on Saturday morning whilst the juniors were storming around the flats of St. James’ Park, 21 Kent ACers took on the infamous undulations of Hilly Fields parkrun. In nothing less than a showing of domination, Kent occupied the first 8 finishing positions! Well done to Dame for finishing first and to everyone for starting their weekends in the best way, and thanks to club members who volunteered too!
Our next club parkrun will be on 6 May – so save the date and look out for further details soon!
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RELAYING THE RELAYS
‘Ken never dreamed the team could one day win a medal. Tiny increments. Decades and decades of work. Keep showing up. Until one year, 2018, we had a breakthrough, and finished 5th. Ken started to believe.
Five years later and we have assembled the strongest team in Kent AC’s history.’
One week on from one of the club’s proudest weekend’s ever, the successes are only just starting to sink in. If you want to re-live the relays, then check out Russell Bentley’s epic write up of how the 12 stages unfolded, and how each of the team stepped up and then some. A true story of how success for the team means success for the whole club.
Just two weeks to go until the biggest event in London on the second May bank holiday weekend! The CG is an open track event on 7th May.
Events to be contested are 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, The Gunpowder Mile, Hurdles, Relays, Javelin and Long Jump. Exciting news for more mature jump racers: there will also be Hurdle entries for W40-W59 and M50-M59 age groups. There will be qualified track officials and timekeepers, so times will be official and recorded on powerof10 and elsewhere.
The entry portal is open here. Book your race soon as some events are already booked up.
There will be a fully licensed bar, a wood-fired pizza van and a coffee hut. It costs £5 to enter the first event and £2 per event thereafter. All spectators are welcome; should be a great day for the club.
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SALutations
If you’ve been inspired by the weekend’s racing successes, and want to pull on the navy blue vest to do your bit for the club, then please sign up for the first fixture of this year’sSouthern Athletics League (SAL), on 20 May at Hornchurch.
All are welcome and the more, the merrier! Please contact and for more details and check out the Sign up spreadsheet here.
We also need officials and volunteers and if you are interested please contact .
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FREE FOOD*
We will be hosting a running and wellbeing event on 17 May and would love to welcome as many people as possible!
We all know that recovery, fuelling and generally treating our bodies as miraculous temples is as important to an athlete’s wellbeing as the actual training, but still we believe that if we run our bodies into submission, those PBs will happen. They just won’t.
Learn more about the fun stuff during an evening of lectures, food, drinks and general high jinks, cunningly inserted between our two training nights for maximum recovery. You owe it to your temple to attend.
Running & Wellbeing Event: Performance, Power, Psychology and Pints Wednesday 17th May 2023 19:15-21:15 at St. Dunstans Jubiliee Ground, Canadian Avenue, London SE6 4SW An opportunity to learn, question, reflect and socialise. There will be a bar and food.
Jake has set up an Excel page for those who would like to run for the team at the Beckenham Relays on 17 May, and the Dulwich ones on 21 June. Put your name down here
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SUMMER FORWARD LOOK
Save the dates for the Kent AC Open meet, a wellbeing event, SAL, Assembly League, parkruns, and the big 125 anniversary dinner. It’s set to be a summer to remember!
4 May – Assembly League Victoria Park 6 May – parkrun takeover (location TBC – please share ideas!) 7 May – Kent AC Open Meeting, Ladywell Arena 17 May – Wellbeing Event, St Dunstan’s 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 21 June – Dulwich relays 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
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SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
Courses take place on 1 April in Norman Park, and the following are available:
Level 1 Starter/Starters Assistant
Level 1 Track Judge
Level 1 Field Judge
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
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KIT DONATIONS FOR JUNIORS
Thank you to those who have donated their unwanted Kent AC New Balance kit.
We still have more juniors who would be interested in receiving some kit. Please let Amelia know if you have any running kit (not only New Balance) that could be useful to the juniors.
This doesn’t have to be just Kent AC club kit, all running kit suitable for junior athletes is welcomed. Amelia will be setting up a junior kit swap shop at the open meet on 7 May.
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WELFARE OFFICER VACANCY
After more than 5 years as one of the club’s welfare officers, Neil Gordon Orr will stepping down shortly due to work commitments. England Athletics recommend that clubs should have both male and female welfare officers, so we are looking for somebody to replace me and work alongside Sarah Young and Sarah Maris-Shaw. The welfare officer role involves taking a lead for safeguarding children and adults at risk (though this is everybody’s responsibility), helping to develop policy and occasionally dealing with concerns. We also have an interest in promoting athletes’ well being more broadly, such as encouraging an understanding of mental health issues.
The role would suit somebody with a children’s services background in education, health or social care though this is not essential. It is a great opportunity to make a difference and also looks good on your CV! Training in the role is offered by England Athletics and Neil will do a full handover/induction for my replacement. If you might interested or would like to find out more please let us know at .
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MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to to find out more.
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SWEEPSTAKE NUMBERS AVAILABLE
Next month will be a roll over. Whoever has the bonus ball on 6th May will win £500. If you want one of the last available numbers, email David at .
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EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline/Laurie at ( / ).
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30
Thursday 17:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked at https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/london/lewisham/ladywell-arena. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
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KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly on .
<!–
–>
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 16/04/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 16 April 2023
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It’s a celebration weekend as Kent’s men achieved the best result in the club’s history at the National 12 Stage Relays in Birmingham, coming third in a very tight contest. Full details below.
There were also good marathon results in Manchester and Boston (not that one), while Jon Tipper, unable to make the trip for the relays, had to settle for one of the fastest 10 parkruns in the country with 15:26 at Dulwich.
There’s a shoutout for the first SAL meet at Hornchurch, either competing or officiating, and don’t forget the Coronation Games on 7 May,
Good luck to those Kent runners attempting London next week!
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MEN’S RELAY SUCCESS!
In perfect conditions in Sutton Park Birmingham yesterday, Kent’s men made history by becoming the first team in the club’s history to gain a team medal, coming third in an intensely fought contest in which victory was possible into the last leg. After 4 hours of running, just 56 seconds separated the top 3, with all three teams breaking the previous course record.
Kent supplemented the team that gained 5th place in the Southern Relays two weeks ago by bringing in Olympians Alex Yee and Paul Pollock, 2:14 marathon runner Ross Braden and veteran stalwart John Gilbert, all sub-30 10kers, creating possibly the strongest team in our history. Our B team also qualified for the Nationals, so we had a good coachload travelling to the Midlands.
The quality of the field was demonstrated by ex-British 5k record holder Marc Scott leading out the first leg, with Cam Dockerill producing a phenomenal run on the fiercely competitive leg to bring us home in 15th out of 62 starters. Noah Armitage Hooke ran the 7th fastest 2nd leg, bumping us up to 10th.Owen Hind gained us 3 more places with the 6th fastest 3rd leg, then Jake Simmonds got us to 5th with the 4th fastest 4th leg. Max Nicholls gained us a place to 3rd with the 4th fastest 5th leg, then Sean Fitzpatrick ran a steady leg before handing over to Alex Yee.
Alex blasted the field, overtaking 3 runners to take the lead, gaining nearly 90s on the leader and handing over 34s in front. Kent held the lead for the next 3 legs, with Rob Sesseman, Paul Pollock and Ross Braden all running strongly, Paul being chased by an impressive trio of Andrew Butchart, Dewi Griffiths and James Kingston.
The last two legs were run by our accomplished veterans John Gilbert and Chris Greenwood. John was overtaken by Jamie Crowe of Central AC, and Chris by Robel Bahelbi of Highgate as we finished with our best ever result, ahead of Swansea, Tonbridge and Aldershot, not to mention Hercules Wimbledon.
For a while it looked as if Alex Yee had won the prestigious fastest long leg medal, which he has won twice before, and has been won in the past by legends such as Brendan Foster, David Moorcroft, Chris Thompson and Mo Farah, and he was indeed awarded the medal, but revised results gave it to Andrew Butchart by 1 second. Alex can consider himself unlucky here given that his watch showed 24.55 for his leg against 24:58 by the results. Unfortunately, without chip timing, the organisers do sometimes ‘reallocate’ the odd few seconds which seems to have cost him. Ross Braden ran the 3rd fastest short leg overall.
Alex in full flow (Photo – Harrison Read)
Our B team also ran well, finishing 26th overall and 2nd B team behind Highgate B.
Team results: [Leg number/name/time/position in leg/team position] A Team 1 Cameron Dockerill 26:32 (15) (15)
2 Noah Armitage Hooke 15:35 (7) (10)
3 Owen Hind 26:32 (6) (7)
4 Jake Simmonds 15:33 (4) (5)
5 Max Nicholls 26:18 (4) (3)
6 Sean Fitzpatrick 16:02 (12) (4)
7 Alex Yee 24:58 (1) (1) 2nd fastest long leg
8 Rob Sesemann 15:41 (5) (1)
9 Paul Pollock 26:17 (5) (1)
10 Ross Braden 15:10 (2) (1) 3rd fastest short leg
11 John Gilbert 26:24 (5) (2)
12 Chris Greenwood 15:48 (7) (3)
Top 3 teams:
1 Central AC 4:09:54
2 Highgate Harriers 4:10:38
3 Kent AC 4:10:50
B Team
1 Dame Dibaba 27:43 (38) (38)
2 George Russell 16:22 (25) (33)
3 Chris Busaileh 29:07 (40) (35)
4 Chris Mullin 16:53 (28) (34)
5 Ben Clarke 28:02 (25) (33)
6 Peter Lighting 16:40 (24) (31)
7 James Boustead 28:40 (31) (31)
8 Ian Ellwood 17:47 (34) (31)
9 Matthew Speed 28:22 (22) (31)
10 Calum Fraser 16:56 (24) (29)
11 Che Compton 29:02 (25) (26)
12 Ben Harding 17:42 (32) (26)
Kent men’s road captain Chris Busaileh said: “It was an absolute privilege to be part of what was a special day for the club. Getting a team together that has the potential to be competitive is one thing but the guys need to deliver on the day. They did that and then some. Even on my most optimistic predictions we were nowhere near 4.10.50. That’s a course record by nearly 2 minutes. We ran that because so many of the guys stepped up a level when it really counted. We were unfortunate to come up against two better teams on the day but that’s ok; it just means we’ve got unfinished business for next year.”
“A word too on the B team. Simply getting a B team through is impressive but to finish well in the top half of the field when, by definition, you’re without your 12 best runners is incredible. The majority in that team would walk in to almost anyone else’s A team yet not a single one complained about not making the cut. Instead there was genuine excitement about being involved and I’ve no doubt that enthusiasm helped spur everyone on.”
Manchester marathon is a popular alternative for those who don’t get a London place, and we had several runners up there this morning. Andy Colley ran 2:57, John Gilchrist 3:08 (PB), Rich Jones 3:40 (PB), Annie Gould-Magee 3:40, Jo Mott 3:49, Khawaja Shahbuddin 3:54.
In Boston (Lincolnshire) Tim Sharp ran 2:59:56, achieving his target by just 4s, and Paul McCrone ran 3:30.
Apologies if we missed your result, please inform us if you’d like to be included. Email to .
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KENT AC’S CORONATION GAMES – 7 MAY
If you’re a republican, just think of this as Kent AC’s May Sports Day. The CG is an open track event on 7th May, when something else might also be on in town.
Events to be contested are 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, The Gunpowder Mile, Hurdles, Relays, Javelin and Long Jump. Exciting news for more mature jump racers: there will also be Hurdle entries for W40-W59 and M50-M59 age groups. There will be qualified track officials and timekeepers, so times will be official and recorded on powerof10 and elsewhere.
The entry portal is open here. Book your race soon as some events are already booked up.
There will be a fully licensed bar, a wood-fired pizza van and a coffee hut. It costs £5 to enter the first event and £2 per event thereafter. All spectators are welcome; should be a great day for the club.
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SOUTHERN ATHLETICS LEAGUE
The Southern Athletics League (SAL) starts again on 20 May with a fixture at Hornchurch. Everyone is welcome to join and the best two from each event will be selected as scoring athletes. Non-scoring athletes are welcome to compete too. Please contact and for more details.
We also need officials and volunteers and if you are interested please contact .
Just five weeks to go until our running and wellbeing event on 17 May.
We all know that recovery, fuelling and generally treating our bodies as miraculous temples is as important to an athlete’s wellbeing as the actual training, but still we believe that if we run our bodies into submission, those PBs will happen. They just won’t.
Learn more about the fun stuff during an evening of lectures, food, drinks and general high jinks, cunningly inserted between our two training nights for maximum recovery. You owe it to your temple to attend.
Running & Wellbeing Event: Performance, Power, Psychology and Pints
Wednesday 17th May 2023 19:15-21:15 at St. Dunstans Jubiliee Ground, Canadian Avenue, London SE6 4SW
An opportunity to learn, question, reflect and socialise.
There will be a bar and food.
Jake has set up an Excel page for those who would like to run for the team at the Beckenham Relays on 17 May, and the Dulwich ones on 21 June. Put your name down here
SWIPE RIGHT FOR IMPORTANT DATES
Save the dates for the all-important National relays, Kent AC Open meet, a wellbeing event, SAL, Assembly League, parkruns, and the big 125 anniversary dinner:
4 May – Assembly League Victoria Park 6 May – parkrun takeover (location TBC – please share ideas!) 7 May – Kent AC Open Meeting, Ladywell Arena 17 May – Wellbeing Event, St Dunstan’s 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
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KENT AC IS 125
Save the date: 16 September 2023
Careful observers of our club badge will notice three dates:1898 was when our two founder clubs, Lewisham Hare and Hounds (1885) and West Kent Harriers (1887) merged to form Kent AC.
The club is therefore among the oldest athletics clubs in the country and one of the oldest sports clubs in the borough – certainly the one with the longest continuous association.
The club was first heard of in mid June of 1898, hence the focus on the SAL match on 18 June, but we will celebrate our 125th birthday more thoroughly on 16 September with an event at the track, runs and a dinner and dance to remember.
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SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
Courses take place on 1 April in Norman Park, and the following are available:
Level 1 Starter/Starters Assistant
Level 1 Track Judge
Level 1 Field Judge
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
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KIT DONATIONS FOR JUNIORS
Thank you to those who have donated their unwanted Kent AC New Balance kit.
We still have more juniors who would be interested in receiving some kit. Please let Amelia know if you have any running kit (not only New Balance) that could be useful to the juniors.
This doesn’t have to be just Kent AC club kit, all running kit suitable for junior athletes is welcomed. Amelia will be setting up a junior kit swap shop at the open meet on 7 May.
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WELFARE OFFICER VACANCY
After more than 5 years as one of the club’s welfare officers, Neil Gordon Orr will stepping down shortly due to work commitments. England Athletics recommend that clubs should have both male and female welfare officers, so we are looking for somebody to replace me and work alongside Sarah Young and Sarah Maris-Shaw. The welfare officer role involves taking a lead for safeguarding children and adults at risk (though this is everybody’s responsibility), helping to develop policy and occasionally dealing with concerns. We also have an interest in promoting athletes’ well being more broadly, such as encouraging an understanding of mental health issues.
The role would suit somebody with a children’s services background in education, health or social care though this is not essential. It is a great opportunity to make a difference and also looks good on your CV! Training in the role is offered by England Athletics and Neil will do a full handover/induction for my replacement. If you might interested or would like to find out more please let us know at .
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MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to to find out more.
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SWEEPSTAKE NUMBERS AVAILABLE
Next month will be a roll over. Whoever has the bonus ball on 6th May will win £500. If you want one of the last available numbers, email David at .
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NIGHT OF THE 10,000M PB’S ENTRY NOW OPEN
Entry is now open for the 2023 Night of the 10,000M PB’s at Highgate on 20th May. If you want to take part in the running version of Glastonbury, entry is currently open to men sub 31:00 and women sub 36:30. You can find more information here.
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EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline/Laurie at ( / ).
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30
Thursday 17:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked at https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/london/lewisham/ladywell-arena. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
<!–
–>
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly on .
<!–
–>
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 10/04/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 9 April 2023
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If chocolate is off the menu for those training for Manchester Marathon or the Sutton Coldfield relays next weekend, or indeed The Big One on 23 April, they have our sympathies this Easter tide.
As we anticipate the spring race schedule, feverishly checking the weather apps and training plans, we can take comfort that there’s a lot to look forward to that doesn’t involve privation and self sacrifice.
Think of the Coronation Games coming up on 7 May as the club’s fun sports day:entries are still open
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TURNED OUT NICE AGAIN
Kent AC have some smashing results to report this week, as Sir Mo Farrah, another London Marathon hopeful, comes in at less-than-edifying seventh at the Port-Gentil 10k. We imagine he’s saving himself for 23 April, too. That extraordinary jumping genius Joe Appiah (Joe Happy Hour to his YouTube followers) won gold in the 60m hurdles at at the World Masters Indoor Athletics Championships in Torun, Poland, last week. His time was 8.39. He also made the 60m final, running 7.49 s in the semi.
And Rob Laing and Joffah (second claim), had a very Good Friday at the seaside, running the Folkestone 10 miler, coming in 7th and 22nd place respectively. On Saturday, Russelll Bentley, tempted down from the mountains to the Big Smoke for some sort of road running event, consoled himself at Dulwich parkrun by coming in first in 15.29.
KENT AC’S CORONATION GAMES – 7 MAY
If you’re a republican, just think of this as Kent AC’s May Sports Day. The CG is an open track event on 7th May, when something else might also be on in town.
Events to be contested are 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, The Gunpowder Mile, Hurdles, Relays, Javelin and Long Jump. Exciting news for more mature jump racers: there will also be Hurdle entries for W40-W59 and M50-M59 age groups. There will be qualified track officials and timekeepers, so times will be official and recorded on powerof10 and elsewhere.
The entry portal is open here. Book your race soon as some events are already booked up.
There will be a fully licensed bar, a wood-fired pizza van and a coffee hut. It costs £5 to enter the first event and £2 per event thereafter. All spectators are welcome; should be a great day for the club.
RUNNING WELL
Just five weeks to go until our running and wellbeing event on 17 May.
We all know that recovery, fuelling and generally treating our bodies as miraculous temples is as important to an athlete’s wellbeing as the actual training, but still we believe that if we run our bodies into submission, those PBs will happen. They just won’t.
Learn more about the fun stuff during an evening of lectures, food, drinks and general high jinks, cunningly inserted between our two training nights for maximum recovery. You owe it to your temple to attend.
Running & Wellbeing Event: Performance, Power, Psychology and Pints
Wednesday 17th May 2023 19:15-21:15 at St. Dunstans Jubiliee Ground, Canadian Avenue, London SE6 4SW
An opportunity to learn, question, reflect and socialise.
There will be a bar and food.
Jake has set up an Excel page for those who would like to run for the team at the Beckenham Relays on 17 May, and the Dulwich ones on 21 June. Put your name down here
SWIPE RIGHT FOR IMPORTANT DATES
Save the dates for the all-important National relays, Kent AC Open meet, a wellbeing event, SAL, Assembly League, parkruns, and the big 125 anniversary dinner:
15 April – National 6/12-Stage Relays, Sutton Coldfield 4 May – Assembly League Victoria Park 6 May – parkrun takeover (location TBC – please share ideas!) 7 May – Kent AC Open Meeting, Ladywell Arena 17 May – Wellbeing Event, St Dunstan’s 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
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KENT AC IS 125
Save the date: 16 September 2023
Careful observers of our club badge will notice three dates:1898 was when our two founder clubs, Lewisham Hare and Hounds (1885) and West Kent Harriers (1887) merged to form Kent AC.
The club is therefore among the oldest athletics clubs in the country and one of the oldest sports clubs in the borough – certainly the one with the longest continuous association.
The club was first heard of in mid June of 1898, hence the focus on the SAL match on 18 June, but we will celebrate our 125th birthday more thoroughly on 16 September with an event at the track, runs and a dinner and dance to remember.
<!–
–>
SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
Courses take place on 1 April in Norman Park, and the following are available:
Level 1 Starter/Starters Assistant
Level 1 Track Judge
Level 1 Field Judge
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
<!–
–>
KIT DONATIONS FOR JUNIORS
Thank you to those who have donated their unwanted Kent AC New Balance kit.
We still have more juniors who would be interested in receiving some kit. Please let Amelia know if you have any running kit (not only New Balance) that could be useful to the juniors.
This doesn’t have to be just Kent AC club kit, all running kit suitable for junior athletes is welcomed. Amelia will be setting up a junior kit swap shop at the open meet on 7 May.
<!–
–>
WELFARE OFFICER VACANCY
After more than 5 years as one of the club’s welfare officers, Neil Gordon Orr will stepping down shortly due to work commitments. England Athletics recommend that clubs should have both male and female welfare officers, so we are looking for somebody to replace me and work alongside Sarah Young and Sarah Maris-Shaw. The welfare officer role involves taking a lead for safeguarding children and adults at risk (though this is everybody’s responsibility), helping to develop policy and occasionally dealing with concerns. We also have an interest in promoting athletes’ well being more broadly, such as encouraging an understanding of mental health issues.
The role would suit somebody with a children’s services background in education, health or social care though this is not essential. It is a great opportunity to make a difference and also looks good on your CV! Training in the role is offered by England Athletics and Neil will do a full handover/induction for my replacement. If you might interested or would like to find out more please let us know at .
<!–
–>
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to to find out more.
<!–
–>
SWEEPSTAKE NUMBERS AVAILABLE
Next month will be a roll over. Whoever has the bonus ball on 6th May will win £500. If you want one of the last available numbers, email David at .
<!–
–>
NIGHT OF THE 10,000M PB’S ENTRY NOW OPEN
Entry is now open for the 2023 Night of the 10,000M PB’s at Highgate on 20th May. If you want to take part in the running version of Glastonbury, entry is currently open to men sub 31:00 and women sub 36:30. You can find more information here.
<!–
–>
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline/Laurie at ( / ).
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:15 – 20:45
Thursday 18:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
NEW TIMES AHOY!
Thursday track nights will be extended from 1 April:
17:30-20:30pm to mirror Tuesday nights.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked at https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/london/lewisham/ladywell-arena. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
<!–
–>
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly on .
<!–
–>
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 02/04/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 2 April 2023
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It feels like spring is finally here, and a day of action when it seems like half the club was on its feet.
In competitive team action, we had the Southern road relays in Olympic Park, 12 stage for the men and 6 stage for the women, which were also heats for the National Relays in 2 weeks time.
We also had runners in the Brighton and Paris marathons, and halfs all over the place, most notably in Berlin.
One thing to note is that the Assembly League on April 6th has been cancelled, or perhaps postponed. The first race will now be on May 4th at Victoria Park.
Kent’s top men and women were in action in the Olympic Park this afternoon, the men with 3 teams in the 12 stage event, the women with 2 in the 6 stage.
The men’s A team finished a highly impressive 5th, which bodes well for the Nationals with stronger runners to come in, the B team finished 25th, 5th B team, and the C team was 42nd, 2nd C team.
The runners were:
A: Chris Greenwood (22:30), Jonathan Tipper (14:58), Jake Simmonds (22:23), Chris Busaileh (15:29), Rob Sesemann (22:11), Sean Fitzpatrick (14:54), Owen Hind (22:21), Matthew Speed (15:06), Max Nicholls (21:35), James Boustead (15:23), Cameron Dockerill (22:15), Ben Clarke (15:12). The fastest short leg (2.75m) was Sean Fitzpatrick (14:54), the fastest long leg (4.5m) was Max Nicholls (21:35)
B: Dame Dibaba (22:50), Chris Mullin (15:46), Calum Fraser (24:08), Ian Ellwood 16:23), George Russell (23:24), Philip Woodford-Smith (16:34), Peter Lighting (24:22), Neil Phillips (16:17), Luke Rowland (24:39), Fergus Johnson (16:06), Barnaby Day 23:45), Rob Laing (16:27). Fastest short leg Chris Mullin (15:46), fastest long leg Dame Dibaba (22:50)
C: Richard Giles (25:30), Mohamed Elmi (16:09), John Gilchrist (25:56), Oliver Harland (17:04), Daniel Messias (25:27), Lyndon Marfell (16:42), Nicholas Ostrowski (25:39), Will Ross (17:10), Stuart Beaney (26:22), Matt Moroney (18:41), Ben Armson (27:03), Kieran Fitzpatrick (17:16). Fastest short leg Mohamed Elmi (16:09), fastest long leg Daniel Messias (25:27)
The women’s A team also finished 5th, and the B team was 16th, 3rd B team.
The runners were:
A: Bryony Proctor (17:27), Annie Birch (25:45), Georgina Wiley (17:46), Caoimhe Nic Fhogartaigh (26:08), Wllie Freeden (17:55), Alexa Parker (17:02). Fastest short leg Alexa Parker (17:02), fastest long leg Annie Birch 25:45.
B: Sarah Crichton (17:34), Jennifer Berg (28:51), Amy White (18:24), Nesrin Sabanci (29:03), Parris Williams (19:24), Ella Day (19:14). Fastest short leg Sarah Crichton (17:34), fastest long leg Jennifer Berg (28:51)
Great results from both men and women, who look forward to the Nationals in 2 weeks time.
We had good results from several races on the continent and elsewhere today.
First up, Brighton marathon, where we had 8 finishers – Tom Marshall (2:43), Ed Andrews (2:51), Huw Evans (2:56), Stephen Watts (2:58), Ralph Weir (3:11), Chris Hardy (3:54), and Sarah Young and Ronnie Haydon (both 3:59)
In Paris, James Bates ran 3:23 in his first marathon, a great result.
Over in Berlin, a clutch of Kent women had good races in the half marathon – Ivona Gongolova (97:21), Zuzana Nemeckova (1:44), Jo Wint (1:45) and Anna Delis (1:53)
Arguably the best result of the weekend was Nicky Hayes in the Southampton Half, where she ran 1:41, enough to win her age category (VW60) and be 16th woman home out of 718. Proving yet again that running life doesn’t end at 40, 50 or even 60!
Well done to all!
Please note that we will pick up results in big races where available, but do notify us if you have any result you’d like us to include, or contrarily if you’d like us not to include you in the newsletter. Email to .
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CROSS COUNTRY HANDICAP RESULTS
Another XC Season draws to a close, as does the Kent AC Handicap competition! Kudos to all 117 runners who took part in this year’s season.
Special mentions to Ian Ellwood and Cameron Dockerill who ran in all 9 matches for the men, as well as Lucy Elms, Clare Elms, Sarah Crichton, Teresa Murphy, Nesrin Sabanci, Jo Mott, and Anabelle Hadlow who all showed up for 7 matches this season. Phenomenal team spirit!
Handicap Competition
Women: Lucy Elms
Nesrin Sabanci
Alexa Parker
Men: Isaac Maxwell
James Boustead
John Gilchrist
Grand Prix (race position)
Women: Lucy Elms
Alexa Parker
Clare Elms
Men: Cameron Dockerill
Dan Pettitt
Isaac Maxwell
Congratulations to double winner Lucy Elms, Isaac Maxwell, and Cameron Dockerill!
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KENT AC’S CORONATION GAMES – 7 MAY
Kent AC is hosting an open track event on 7th May, on the weekend of the Coronation.
Events to be contested are 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, The Gunpowder Mile, Hurdles, Relays, Javelin and Long Jump.
There will be qualified track officials and timekeepers, so times will be official and recorded on powerof10 and elsewhere.
There will be a fully licensed bar, a wood-fired pizza van and a coffee hut. It costs £5 to enter the first event and £2 per event thereafter.
All spectators are welcome!
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SWIPE RIGHT FOR IMPORTANT DATES
Save the dates for the all-important National relays, Kent AC Open meet, a wellbeing event, SAL, Assembly League, parkruns, and the big 125 anniversary dinner:
15 April – National 6/12-Stage Relays, Sutton Park 4 May – Assembly League Victoria Park 6 May – parkrun takeover (location TBC – please share ideas!) 7 May – Kent AC Open Meeting, Ladywell Arena 17 May – Wellbeing Event, St Dunstan’s 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
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KENT AC IS 125
Save the date: 16 September 2023
Careful observers of our club badge will notice three dates:1898 was when our two founder clubs, Lewisham Hare and Hounds (1885) and West Kent Harriers (1887) merged to form Kent AC.
The club is therefore among the oldest athletics clubs in the country and one of the oldest sports clubs in the borough – certainly the one with the longest continuous association.
The club was first heard of in mid June of 1898, hence the focus on the SAL match on 18 June, but we will celebrate our 125th birthday more thoroughly on 16 September with an event at the track, runs and a dinner and dance to remember.
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SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
Courses take place on 1 April in Norman Park, and the following are available:
Level 1 Starter/Starters Assistant
Level 1 Track Judge
Level 1 Field Judge
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
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KIT DONATIONS FOR JUNIORS
Thank you to those who have donated their unwanted Kent AC New Balance kit.
We still have more juniors who would be interested in receiving some kit. Please let Amelia know if you have any running kit (not only New Balance) that could be useful to the juniors.
This doesn’t have to be just Kent AC club kit, all running kit suitable for junior athletes is welcomed. Amelia will be setting up a junior kit swap shop at the open meet on 7 May.
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WELFARE OFFICER VACANCY
After more than 5 years as one of the club’s welfare officers, Neil Gordon Orr will stepping down shortly due to work commitments. England Athletics recommend that clubs should have both male and female welfare officers, so we are looking for somebody to replace me and work alongside Sarah Young and Sarah Maris-Shaw. The welfare officer role involves taking a lead for safeguarding children and adults at risk (though this is everybody’s responsibility), helping to develop policy and occasionally dealing with concerns. We also have an interest in promoting athletes’ well being more broadly, such as encouraging an understanding of mental health issues.
The role would suit somebody with a children’s services background in education, health or social care though this is not essential. It is a great opportunity to make a difference and also looks good on your CV! Training in the role is offered by England Athletics and Neil will do a full handover/induction for my replacement. If you might interested or would like to find out more please let us know at .
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MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to to find out more.
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SWEEPSTAKE NUMBERS AVAILABLE
Last night’s bonus ball was 49, one of 3 numbers that have not been taken. This means that next month will be a roll over! Whoever has the bonus ball on 6th May will win £500. If you want one of the last available numbers, email David at .
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ALL TOO WELL (KENT’S VERSION)
On 17th May, Kent AC’s resident nutritionist, medic, physio, and elite runners have all been recruited to take part in our first Athletes Wellbeing event (working title: Performance, Power, Psychology and Pints), to be held at St Dunstan’s/Jubilee Sports Ground in Catford.
Keynote speakers will be Jack Green (Olympian and Kent AC alumnus), Dr Kate Williams (health), Zuzana Nemeckova (nutrition), Mary Brooking (injury and rehabilitation),
and one of our senior athletes to talk about running into mid life and beyond.
Of course there will be a bar, and tea and coffee and a buffet.
The event will be free though ticketed via EventBrite so we can keep an eye on numbers and promote accordingly.
Watch this space as more speakers are recruited. This event is open to all and is designed to be the perfect club social for runners looking to improve performance and extend their engagement with our wonderful sport.
NIGHT OF THE 10,000M PB’S ENTRY NOW OPEN
Entry is now open for the 2023 Night of the 10,000M PB’s at Highgate on 20th May. If you want to take part in the running version of Glastonbury, entry is currently open to men sub 31:00 and women sub 36:30. You can find more information here.
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EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline/Laurie at ( / ).
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:15 – 20:45
Thursday 18:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
NEW TIMES AHOY!
Thursday track nights will be extended from 1 April:
17:30-20:30pm to mirror Tuesday nights.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked at https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/london/lewisham/ladywell-arena. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
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KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly on .
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CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!
<<First Name>>, Please see this week’s update for Kent AC members – 26/03/23<!–
KENT AC NEWS BULLETIN 26 March 2023
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Reports of maranoia abound as people get out in the rain for the final long runs or races before spring marathon season starts. We’ve had excellent results from the Hampton Court Half and elsewhere, and another parkrun takeover.
This morning in awful conditions several Kent women ran at Hampton Court, with some fine results, despite the mud: Annie Birch was first woman home (80:56), Caoimhe Nic Fhogartaigh was 6th (1st V45) (85:06) and Georgina Wiley-Stinson was 9th (1st V35) (86:47). Jennifer Berg was 18th (91:51) and Kersha Dwyer was 32nd (3rd V40) (93:21).
Caoimhe and Georgina wearing the Hampton Court course
Elsewhere, both James Royston (89:41) and Tom Carpenter (87:13) ran fine PBs at Hastings Half and Sheffield Half respectively.
Kent did another takeover at Dulwich parkrun on Saturday, with over 20 runners turning up, Jake Simmonds finishing in 2nd place. Meanwhile, Cam Dockerill had to to travel to Italy to find a race to win – Treviso parkrun in 15:39, almost 6 minutes ahead of 2nd place!
Kent AC is hosting an open track event on 7th May, on the weekend of the Coronation.
Events to be contested are 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, The Gunpowder Mile, Hurdles, Relays, Javelin and Long Jump.
There will be qualified track officials and timekeepers, so times will be official and recorded on powerof10 and elsewhere.
There will be a fully licensed bar, a wood-fired pizza van and a coffee hut. It costs £5 to enter the first event and £2 per event thereafter.
All spectators are welcome!
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ASSEMBLY LEAGUE AHOY!
As we ease towards summer (really), cross country races are replaced by Assembly League in the calendar.
For those who haven’t run Assembly League before, they’re 5k club races held on the first Thursday of each month in various parks, both men and women together. Scoring is both by team and in individual age categories. We usually have very good participation in these races, they’re fun social events – at Beckenham last year we had about 50 runners.
The first race is scheduled to be at Beckenham Place Park on Thursday 6th April, but that hasn’t yet been confirmed. Please check next week’s newsletter for updates.
Provisional dates and locations are as follows:
6 April – Beckenham Place Park 4 May – Victoria Park 1 June – Crystal Palace Park or Dulwich Park or Eton Manor 6 July – Crystal Palace Park or Dulwich Park or Eton Manor 3 August – Victoria Park 7 Sep – Beckenham Place Park
All races start at 7:30pm
Do mark them in your diaries and turn up if you can!
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SWIPE RIGHT FOR IMPORTANT DATES
Save the dates for the all-important Southern and National relays, Kent AC Open meet, a wellbeing event, SAL, Assembly League, parkruns, and the big 125 anniversary dinner:
2 April – Southern 6/12-Stage Relays, Olympic Park 6 April – Assembly League BPP 15 April – National 6/12-Stage Relays, Sutton Park 4 May – Assembly League Victoria Park 6 May – parkrun takeover (location TBC – please share ideas!) 7 May – Kent AC Open Meeting, Ladywell Arena (more details below!) 17 May – Wellbeing Event, St Dunstan’s (more details below!) 20 May – SAL, Hornchurch 1 June – Assembly League TBC 18 June – SAL, Mile End 6 July – Assembly League TBC 9 July – SAL, Stevenage 3 August – Assembly League Victoria Park 19 August – SAL, Thurrock 7 September – Assembly League BPP 16 September – 125th Anniversary Dinner
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KENT AC IS 125
Save the date: 16 September 2023
Careful observers of our club badge will notice three dates:1898 was when our two founder clubs, Lewisham Hare and Hounds (1885) and West Kent Harriers (1887) merged to form Kent AC.
The club is therefore among the oldest athletics clubs in the country and one of the oldest sports clubs in the borough – certainly the one with the longest continuous association.
The club was first heard of in mid June of 1898, hence the focus on the SAL match on 18 June, but we will celebrate our 125th birthday more thoroughly on 16 September with an event at the track, runs and a dinner and dance to remember.
<!–
–>
SHOW TRACK AND FIELD YOUR LOVE
Athletics needs more officials, and volunteering in this way is a wonderful way to give back to the club.
Courses take place on 1 April in Norman Park, and the following are available:
Level 1 Starter/Starters Assistant
Level 1 Track Judge
Level 1 Field Judge
This is a great opportunity to help get club events’ results on Power of 10. And it’s fun.
It would be great to see a few more people put their names down to help out!
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KIT DONATIONS FOR JUNIORS
Thank you to those who have donated their unwanted Kent AC New Balance kit.
We still have more juniors who would be interested in receiving some kit. Please let Amelia know if you have any running kit (not only New Balance) that could be useful to the juniors.
This doesn’t have to be just Kent AC club kit, all running kit suitable for junior athletes is welcomed. Amelia will be setting up a junior kit swap shop at the open meet on 7 May.
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MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY VACANCY
We have a vacancy for the membership secretary committee role. Bernie acts as the first port of call for all new members, ensuring they join the club without any problems and he has been a highly valued committee member for many years.
We would love to find someone who is:
– Diligent with an attention to detail
– Proactive in dealing with queries
– Computer literate
– Familiar with online payment systems
– Able to attend regular meetings and/or submit reports
If this is you and you want to give a little back to the club, then please reach out to to find out more.
<!–
–>
ALL TOO WELL (KENT’S VERSION)
On 17th May, Kent AC’s resident nutritionist, medic, physio, and elite runners have all been recruited to take part in our first Athletes Wellbeing event (working title: Performance, Power, Psychology and Pints), to be held at St Dunstan’s/Jubilee Sports Ground in Catford.
Keynote speakers will be Jack Green (Olympian and Kent AC alumnus), Dr Kate Williams (health), Zuzana Nemeckova (nutrition), Mary Brooking (injury and rehabilitation),
and one of our senior athletes to talk about running into mid life and beyond.
Of course there will be a bar, and tea and coffee and a buffet.
The event will be free though ticketed via EventBrite so we can keep an eye on numbers and promote accordingly.
Watch this space as more speakers are recruited. This event is open to all and is designed to be the perfect club social for runners looking to improve performance and extend their engagement with our wonderful sport.
NIGHT OF THE 10,000M PB’S ENTRY NOW OPEN
Entry is now open for the 2023 Night of the 10,000M PB’s at Highgate on 20th May. If you want to take part in the running version of Glastonbury, entry is currently open to men sub 31:00 and women sub 36:30. You can find more information here.
<!–
–>
EASYFUNDRAISING
Please remember to use easyfundraising every time you shop online!
Over 7,000 brands pay easyfundraising a commission when you start your shop through their platform, so you can raise FREE donations for us no matter what you’re buying. These donations really help us out, so please sign up if you haven’t yet. It’s easy and FREE! You can get started at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kentac
You can also install a helpful Chrome extension, which prompts you to donate whenever doing any online shopping – really handy
WIN A TRACK PASS
In recognition of the importance of our volunteers, all gate volunteers each month are in with a chance of winning themselves a month’s track pass (worth £10).
To be added to the rota simply email Jacqueline/Laurie at ( / ).
We only need each track attendee to volunteer a couple of times a year to spread the responsibility fairly.
T&Cs for the track pass draw:
All volunteers for the current month will be added into the hat for a draw each month. The winner will win a free pass for the next calendar month. Names will be automatically drawn from https://namepicker.net/ (or similar alternative) The winner can either chose to:
use their free pass within a calendar year allow their free pass to roll down to another volunteer annual pass holders can nominate another club member if they cannot make use of the pass themselves
No refunds/discounts will be provided in place of the free monthly pass. Volunteers will only be eligible to win a pass once every three months.
The usual track times are:
Tuesday 17:15 – 20:45
Thursday 18:30 – 20:30
Sunday 09:00 – 11:30
Please note that individuals are permitted to do their own sessions during club opening times, but coached group sessions continue to take priority.
NEW TIMES AHOY!
Thursday track nights will be extended from 1 April:
17:30-20:30pm to mirror Tuesday nights.
Track Pass – Juniors
Please purchase your £5 junior monthly track pass in advance here.When purchasing the track pass can parents/guardians please enter the athlete’s name when completing the transaction
Ladywell Arena now has new opening hours dedicated to the public. While during these times the Kent AC track pass is not valid, members can pay for an individual session.
The Kent AC track pass continues to be required for training on Tues/Thurs evenings and Sunday mornings.
Track staff have encouraged people to double check the opening hours before their training session, as they may occasionally be closed for school sport days and football friendlies. Hours can be checked at https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/london/lewisham/ladywell-arena. This will likely suit members who can’t make training sessions but would like to train in the morning/lunchtime/evening.
Pay as you go fees can either be paid via cash to the desk or using the Better app (note: staff are working to add the sessions to the app).
<!–
–>
KEEP US UPDATED
You can have your say about what goes in the newsletter and keep us apprised of your results or running adventures by emailing the comms team directly on .
<!–
–>
CLUB CONTACTS PAGE
The password for the club contacts page hereis kacladywell2022 – thanks to Jules for setting that up and managing the club website content!